Ronda Rousey reveals that she was concussed ahead of Holly Holm fight

03 April 2024

Ronda Rousey, the former UFC bantamweight champion, has shed light on the circumstances surrounding her career-ending defeat at UFC 193 against Holly Holm. In a recent interview with Valeria Lipovetsky, Rousey disclosed that she entered the 2015 title fight compromised by a brain injury, ultimately impacting her performance throughout the bout.

Speaking candidly, Rousey revealed that she was "out on my feet for the entire fight," attributing her condition to a combination of factors, including a prior concussion sustained from a fall down stairs. Additionally, she cited a problematic mouthguard and a grueling weight cut, all contributing to her diminished cognitive abilities during the fight.

Despite her efforts to conceal her injuries and maintain a facade of composure, Rousey admitted to struggling with cognitive impairments that affected her ability to think quickly and accurately judge distance. The aftermath of her loss left her disillusioned with both fans and media, as she grappled with the backlash and criticism following her defeat.

Her revelations bring to light the challenges faced by athletes in combat sports, particularly regarding brain health and the pressure to perform despite underlying injuries. Rousey's decision to keep her previous issues concealed stemmed from a desire to protect her career and maintain control over her own destiny in the sport.

The interview also underscored the complexities of oversight within the MMA regulatory landscape. While athletes are subjected to pre-fight medical evaluations, including brain scans, these measures may not always provide a comprehensive assessment of an athlete's brain health, particularly in the absence of historical context.

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Rousey's story serves as a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made by athletes in pursuit of greatness, as well as the need for greater awareness and support for the physical and mental well-being of competitors in combat sports.